Portugal striker Cristiano Ronaldo became the all-time top goalscorer in World Cup qualifying history on Wednesday against Hungary in Lisbon.
The 40-year-old star netted his 40th and 41st qualifying goals, overtaking retired Guatemala international Carlos Ruiz, who scored 39 between 1998 and 2016.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner levelled for Portugal against Hungary in a 2026 World Cup qualifier after 22 minutes by finishing from Nelson Semedo’s cross.
The Al Nassr striker then pounced again before half-time after being set up by Nuno Mendes to give Portugal a 2-1 lead at the break.
List of top three goalscorers in World Cup qualifiers history:
Cristiano Ronaldo – Portugal – 41 goals
Carlos Ruiz – Guatemala – 39 goal
Lionel Messi – Argentina – 36 goals
Published on Oct 15, 2025
